Let The Shots Begin!

I started my Lu.pron (Leuprolide acetate) shots this morning.

For purposes of IVF, Lu.pron is used to suppress the ovaries prior to stimulation to prevent untimely ovulation.  This is important so the the eggs can be retrieved before ovulation occurs.  I will be taking 20 units of Lu.pron in the morning, for at least 10 days, then the dosage will be reduced later.

For a while there, I was confused if I should be taking this once or twice a day.  I received a kit in the mail that included a 14-day supply vial of Lupron, 14 disposable syringes with needles, and 28 alcohol swabs.  In addition, I also got an a bag of disposable insulin syringes that is to be used with Lu.pron.  It made me question if I should be taking this once or twice a day, though I know the nurse that did the consult with me said mornings only.  So I am assuming these are spare syringes, just in case I need it.

Luckily, I double checked the handout I received during our shots class, and it did say only mornings for regular Lu.pron.  Now if I were on the micro-dose Lu.pron, then I would need to take it both in the mornings and evenings.   Another confusing thing is regular Lu.pron does not need to be refrigerated, but the micro-dose ones do need to be refrigerated.  All these discrepancies got me a little nervous last night and it took me a while to fall asleep.

Though I have never been on Lu.pron before this, the shots are very similar to the Supre.fact injections I had from my last IVF cycle a year ago.  Small doses using a small insulin syringe.

The injection went well this morning, I did it right before we left for church.  I gave myself the shot in my tummy like I did in the past.  It helps that I have a nice roll of fat that is perfect for stabbing a needle into!  DH was there to watch and support me, though I think it was more out of curiosity.  He offered to give me the shot, but I said no.  It's easier and less painful if I do it myself.  He is so looking forward to stabbing me with a needle in my a$$ for the HCG shot (he won't admit it, but I can just see it in his eyes!).  It stung a little, I think because I hesitated a bit when sticking the needle.  But the medication did not sting when I pushed the plunger, though a tiny drop of blood popped up after I removed the needle.

According to Dr. Goo.gle, Lu.pron's side effects include constipation, dizziness, general body pain (what the heck does that mean?), headache, hot flashes, loss of appetite, nausea or vomiting, stuffy nose, trouble sleeping and weakness.  Oh what fun......

I'm not one to experience much side effects when on medication, so we'll have to see what, if any side effects I experience.  Then again, it could also mean that I am just clueless and don't pay enough attention to even know that I am experiencing any.

What side effects have you experienced on Lu.pron?  I'll make sure to blog about it if/when I notice them.